Royals Commentary Back on BBC

A successful petition by loyal Royals fans has contributed to BBC Radio Berkshire`s Reading FC match commentary being brought back on the air.

The regional radio station`s coverage was in question after Reading FC granted exclusive rights to ROYALS 107FM, the clubs official Radio station. It was reported that the coverage was also available to BBC Radio Berkshire, yet the station could not come up with the cash requested by the club. But after further talks between the club and the BBC, it was announced that a breakthrough in negotiations had taken place and that BBC Radio Berkshire would be able to continue its match commentary throughout the Royals first season in the top flight.

Alongside match commentary, the BBC will be offering additional programming, on the radio station, regional television, as well as the BBC county website; http://www.bbc.co.uk/berkshire.

"We're delighted. It's great news that we'll continue to broadcast all the Royals' games next season.

We wish the Royals every success in the Premiership and are looking forward very much to being there with them every step of the way."

Lizz Loxam, Managing Editor of BBC Radio Berkshire, said on the matter. While RFC chairman, John Madejski remarked:

"I am very pleased that we have finally been able to reach an agreement that will allow BBC Radio Berkshire to continue providing live commentary next season.

They have been strong supporters of the Club for a number of years and we look forward to continuing our relationship"

A petition started by Reading fans on the fan-site Hob Nob Anyone? is thought to have helped the stations fight to win back coverage. The appeal posted on PetitionOnline.com collected over 1000 signatures of fans and individuals who sympathised with the plight of the fan favourite match coverage. One fan had this to say: "BBC Radio Berkshire`s has covered Reading games for years and years, the ruling that they wouldn`t be able to after the club reached the Premiership was ridiculous! I`m happy the decision has been overturned."

You can join the popular BBC commentary team of Joel Hufford and Tim Dellor right now for live commentary of Reading`s first game of their Swedish tour against Gallstads FK.

By James Wade

Click here to join in the debate on the club forum.